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Rwanda Mining Officials Face Case Over Alleged Illegal Tungsten Extraction

Economy - 27 August 2026

Rwanda Mining Officials Face Case Over Alleged Illegal Tungsten Extraction

By Jean-Marc Okito2 min read

Muhanga, August 27, 2026 - Prosecutors moved to pursue a case involving employees of the Rwanda Mining, Petroleum and Gas Authority suspected of helping Rugendabari Mining Ltd extract tungsten illegally in Muhanga District over a two-year period.

The company is accused of mining between 48 and 60 tonnes of tungsten without a license. Prosecutors valued the minerals at about 3 billion Rwandan francs.

At Nyamabuye Primary Court on August 27, prosecutors said the Rwanda Investigation Bureau arrested Baziruwiha Ephrem, the company's employee in charge of site operations, on August 13. The investigation began after Muhanga District Mayor Jacqueline Kayitare raised concerns that the company's activities were creating insecurity in the area and endangering lives.

The case highlights regulatory and governance risks in Rwanda's mining sector, a key area for export growth and investment.

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